*Updated*

Some people refer to coffee as the nectar of the gods. I thoroughly concur. Coffee is my thang and my spirit just isn’t right in the morning unless I have a good cup of java. I also believe that coffee is just for the morning. Coffee’s for any time as far as I’m concerned.

So I’ve compiled a list of my favorite coffee shops in Atlanta and because this city has some incredible coffee, I had to narrow it down and put some parameters on them:

• In Atlanta proper (city), not outside of I-285 which is the suburbs
• One location or if more than one location, owned by the same proprietors
• Focuses on the coffee bean as opposed to the food
• Must be able to make a design in the foam (just kidding, but maybe not)

These are in no particular order because it would be so hard to choose. Okay, here we go.

1. Joe’s Coffeehouse EAV

Joe’s has no frills, is a true mom and pop and the best thing about it is that it’s only a mile from my house. In the heart of East Atlanta Village almost at the intersection of Flat Shoals and Glenwood Avenues. When I was renovating my house, this was my safe haven away from the dust and all the contractors. The coffee is nice and strong.

There’s funky thrifted decor and the people are so nice. They used to have the best cake slices from Dulce Bakery, but Dulce closed down during the pandemic. So sad.

2. Bellwood Coffee

Although this place has 3 locations, the concept is so unique and each location has their own vibe. The one I’ve been to is in EAV just like Joe’s. When they were renovating the building, they put out the sign first and it said Plants & Coffee. That’s what first caught my eye; they sell plants!

The coffee is good, there’s plants and also merchandise for sale. What’s not to like?

3. Chrome Yellow Trading Company

Located in the Old Fourth Ward, Chrome Yellow roasts their own coffee and has a very comfortable and relaxed feel inside. They sell bulk coffee and there’s also a men’s and women’s apparel shop located inside.

4. Chattahoochee Coffee Co.

I love the Chattahoochee Coffee Company for its wonderful scenery. The location in Westside is very trendy right now and I love to go and sit outside and enjoy my cup. Their milk is sourced from a creamery in Clermont, Georgia and they are committed to make sure their coffee is the most sustainable. Another plus is that they make their flavor syrups in house.

5. Spiller Park Coffee

Spiller Park started off in Ponce City Market and now they have a location in Toco Hills. It’s a millennial favorite because of their killer avocado toast, but I’m definitely not a millennial and I love this coffee shop. It’s definitely trendy, but if you’re into craft espresso drinks, you’ll love this.

6. Brash Coffee

Brash on Howell Mill Road, is in the Westside Provisions which is the hottest area of Atlanta right now. It looks like a big box, and in fact it’s called “The Box”. Seating inside is limited but there’s seating outside and the area around it is very walkable. They work very closely with farmers to source high quality beans and it shows in their product.

7. Urban Grind

Urban Grind is not just a coffee shop; it’s a vibrant community hub in Atlanta where local art, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and lively conversations create a rich atmosphere.

Founded in 2006 by Cassandra Ingram, Urban Grind was designed to capture the essence of Atlanta’s diversity, creativity, and spirit. Visitors can enjoy a space where friendships are made, business deals are forged, and dreams are cultivated.

Welcome to the Urban Grind family, where your passion is fueled, your spirit elevated, and your grind powered.

The walls are adorned with local art, creating an atmosphere.

8. East Pole Coffee Co.

East Pole Coffee is a roastery too and has two locations, but I love the one in Poncey-Highland. They really take their coffee seriously here as evidenced by their thriving wholesale business. The atmosphere is very cool with its sky high ceiling and the exposed ductwork.

9. The Reading Room

The company was founded by two women and offers responsibly sourced coffee in a very relaxing environment. This is such a lovely place to have a coffee, read a book and possibly do some work. Located in downtown Decatur, you have to put your laptops up at 5pm as they turn into a wine bar and I’m not mad at them.

10. Waller’s Coffee Shop

The outside isn’t pretty, but give Waller’s Coffee Shop a chance. I have a soft spot for this coffee shop as they share a last name with me. LOL The coffee is good and the prices are fantastic. This place feels like Cheers because it seems like everybody knows everybody. There is a small waterfall and trails on the property too. If you stay long enough, they have live music at night.

So that’s my list and I’m sticking to it. This by no means is a complete list because Atlanta is a coffee city so like I said, I had to put some restrictions around my picks.

Let me know what your favorite coffee shops are so I can go and check them out. Also, my drink of choice is a latte, what’s yours?

See ya next time.